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Deaconate

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Purpose

    The Deaconate assists the Board of Elders in the care and nurturing of the local church body. Their unique purpose is to carry out the kind of work described in the Book of Acts, chapter 6: to wait on those in need in order that the pastors, elders, and leaders may have adequate time and opportunity to "devote themselves to prayer and the ministry of the Word of God." They are ready to do any work that is a logical and practical extension of the work of Christ through the local body of believers. Certain of these tasks are ongoing and will be done in an orderly fashion by the Deaconate, but some shall be on an "as needed" basis as directed by the Board of Elders.

Structure

    (1) The Deaconate has been divided into "corps" or teams to help distribute the load of the duties of this particular body.

    (2) It has a chairman, appointed Board of Elders, vice chairman, and secretary who is selected by the Deaconate itself.

    (3) Monthly meetings are held on Commission night, at which time the work is reviewed, ideas and observations are shared and accountability is strengthened. Meetings by the corps are held as needed.

Responsibilties

    General Areas

    (1) The assigned elder and the commission chairman will guide the direction and spiritual quality of this commission through guidance, example and prayer.

    (2) Implement, administrate, uphold, and carry out the Deaconate policy

    Specific Areas

    (1) The Festival Corp: Fellowship activities such as dinners and receptions.

    (2) The Comfort Corp: Bringing comfort and encouragement to those that have been suffering in some way or are experiencing the loss of a loved one. They seek to organize the meeting of any of the practical needs such people may be facing.

    (3) The Sharing Corp: The food cupboard, the benevolent fund, meeting the needs of the poor and the needy in an orderly fashion.

    (4) The Decorating Corp: Overseeing that the seasonal decorating items in the church facility are accomplished in a practical and orderly fashion.

    (5) The Ordinance Corp: Organizing and preparing the Lord's Supper, baptisms, and child dedication services in a regular and orderly fashion.

    (6) The Visitation Corp: The Home Calling Ministry, shepherding the flock by giving personal attention to individuals in the body; listening to needs and staying in touch.

    (7) The Hospitality Corp: Organizing and promoting the New Members Information Class and seeing that those interested in making this their church home are made welcome and are enfolded into the church family.

    (8) Other Corps will be added as the need arises or as instructed by the Board of Elders.

Miscellaneous Responsibilities

    (1) Preparation of an Annual Activities Report: This will be incorporated as part of the Board of Elders' annual report to the congregation

    (2) Coordination with the Church Calendar Planner.

    (3) Publicity of Activities and Planned Events.

Areas Needing Approval of Elder Board

    (1) Budget Expenditures Outside of Approved Budget. Also includes any expenditures over the established guidelines.

Coordination with Other Ministries

    The Deaconate receives most all of its information from the elders in terms of duties and responsibilities, yet it remains constantly sensitive to the church calendar and to the activities of each of the commissions and seeks to anticipate or meet needs in the above categories as they become apparent.

    The various corps will work in concert with the other commissions in discharging their duties.

    The Ordinance Corps schedules its various activities in strict concert with the staff.

    The Sharing Corps will work with various relief and aid organizations outside the church (e.g., the Union Gospel Mission).

Other Ministry Areas

    The Deaconate remains sensitive to the needs of those outside the local church, and maintains a watchful eye on struggling like-minded fellowships with financial or emotional needs.

    Such individuals as the rejected and unwanted (e.g., the refugee) is the target of the Deaconate's concern when a spiritual ministry is available in tandem with the meeting of physical needs.

Related Topics: Administrative and Organization

Discipleship/Evangelism Commission

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Purpose

    The Discipleship Commission helps to establish those in our church body through evangelism and discipleship.

    Training in evangelism equips individuals to help fulfill the Great Commission. Organized discipleship groups help believers to mature in their Christian faith, with the specific goal of going on to invest their lives in others.

Structure

    This commission shall be made up of a chairman appointed by the Board of Elders and additional members needed to fulfill the needs of this commission. Regular meetings will be held at the designated times each month when all of the commissions meet. Other meetings, when necessary, will be arranged.

Responsibilities

    General Areas

    (1) The assigned elder and the commission chairman will guide the direction and spiritual quality of this commission through guidance, example, and prayer.

    (2) Assure that adequate records are maintained on all first-time visitors and former visitors.

    (3) Prospects provided by individuals or groups should also be included in these records. Also, assure that all visitors are contacted by appropriate individuals in a timely and orderly fashion.

    Specific Areas

    (1) Supervision and oversight of the discipleship evangelism training ministry.

    (2) Coordination of discipleship groups.

    (3) Oversight of men’s and women’s ministries.

    (4) Provision of gospel tracts for church use. Coordinate the purchasing of additional tracts when necessary.

    (5) Coordination of counseling of new believers. Especially those responding during a church service.

    (6) Coordination of new believer follow-up. To be done in concert with the Deaconate.

    (7) Oversight of the Foundations for Christian Living class: To be done in concert with the C.E. Commission. This class is designed for new believers or those wanting a refresher course of the basics to the Christian faith.

    (8) Development of an annual budget. To be presented to the Stewardship Commission.

    (9) Preparation of an annual activities report. This will be incorporated as part of the Board of Elder's annual report to the congregation.

    (10) Coordination with the church calendar planner for scheduling events.

    (11) Publicity of activities and planned events.

    (12) Keep the pastoral staff informed of scheduled activities.

Areas Needing Approval of Elder Board

    (1) Appointment of chairperson.

    (2) Budget expenditures outside of approved budget and over the established guidelines.

Relationship with Other Ministries

    (1) The Board of Elders and other commissions.

    (2) The facilities commission for coordination as to the utilization of rooms and equipment (VCR, overhead projectors, etc.) for classes and other meetings that the commission feels a need for.

    (3) Be aware of other community evangelistic thrusts in which we might want to participate; e.g., the Billy Graham Telephone Counseling ministry, city-wide crusades, area training seminars, Campus Crusade for Christ ministries, The Navigator's ministry, etc.

Related Topics: Evangelism, Discipleship, Administrative and Organization

Employment Policy

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Welcome to Sample Bible Church. When a person accepts a position with SBC, that person affiliates with a group that shares a special joy in working in Christian ministry. Our desire is to have a common interest and dedication in serving Christ through the maximum development of this congregation's ministry our SBC.

We are glad you have chosen to work with us and trust our efforts together will produce an atmosphere compatible with the Christian principles we represent. You play an important role in the enrichment of the lives of all who attend here. Every staff member is essential to creating an environment of harmony in which to work.

Please, if there are comments or criticisms about anything you see at Sample Bible Church, let the pastoral staff know about it. As a staff member we want your experiences to be pleasant, meaningful and educational. Remember, we each must rely on God's wisdom and strength to do our jobs as unto Him.

Employee Classifications

    Pastoral Staff: Pastoral staff includes all pastors whether they be senior pastor or associate pastor.

    Support/Office Staff: Support/office staff includes all staff members who are not considered to be pastors. Both full-time and part-time positions are included in this category.

    Permanent Staff Members: Permanent staff members include full-time and part-time personnel who are hired on a permanent basis.

    Full-time: Employees are considered full-time when they work at least thirty (30) hours per week.

    Part-time: Staff members who work less than thirty (30) hours per week (as determined to fit the need) are considered part-time employees.

    Temporary Staff Members: Temporary staff members include those who work as substitutes during vacations, illness or other absences, and when extra assistance is needed. Temporary staff members do not participate in vacations, holidays, sick leave or medical insurance programs.

Application for Employment

    All applicants for support/office staff positions at Sample Bible Church, both full-time and part-time, must complete the Application for Employment.

    In filling positions, every effort is made to locate applicants who are especially suited to working on a church staff. There is no discrimination because of race, sex or marital status. There is the requirement, however, that the person be a born-again Christian.

    At the time of employment, the person need not be a member or attend services at Sample Bible Church. Ideally, however, in order to fulfill one's responsibilities as a member of the staff, the person must be willing to become personally involved in the ministry at SBC.

    In the case of the full-time church secretary/office manager, the applicant must be willing to be tested to determine ability and aptitude for the job. Through the testing and interview process, recommendation(s) will be made to the pastoral staff who will then interview the applicant(s).

    The choice of the secretary/office manager shall be by consensus of the pastoral staff. The pastoral staff will then bring its recommendation to the Board of Elders for approval. All other support/office staff applicants will likewise be interviewed by the pastoral staff before being eligible for recommendation to the Board of Elders.

Probationary Period

    A support/office staff employee hired for a permanent position will be placed on probationary status for a period of three (3) months, during which time performance on and reaction to the job will be observed. At the end of the probationary period, the pastoral staff will meet with the employee for an evaluation and determine if they believe the person is qualified and able to fill the position.

    If the pastoral staff does not deem the employee's performance satisfactory, suggestions for improvement will be made and the probationary period extended one (1) month in order to give the employee an opportunity to make improvements. If performance after the one-month extension is still deemed unsatisfactory, the employee may be dismissed after compensation for the period actually worked.

    If the employee's performance is satisfactory, his/her employment will then be considered to be permanent so long as:

    1. There is a need for someone in that position,

    2. The performance of the employee continues to be satisfactory, and

    3. The employee determines he/she is satisfied in the position.

Evaluations

    An evaluation of performance for support/office personnel will be completed at the end of six (6) months, at the end of the first year, and yearly thereafter by the immediate supervisor or pastoral staff.

    The evaluation will be based on capability and performance in handling the day-to-day duties of the position and contribution to the results of the total ministry of the church.

Termination of Employment

Office Staff

    Resignation: Voluntary termination on the part of the employee requires a minimum two-week notice, in writing, to the immediate supervisor or pastoral staff. The time it takes to rehire and train new personnel actually requires more than two weeks; therefore, notification of a planned resignation several weeks in advance would be most helpful and greatly appreciated.

    Discharge: Before an employee is discharged, the employee will be given a verbal warning by the immediate supervisor or by a member of the pastoral staff that the employee's work is of insufficient quality and is not meeting the standards required for the specific job.

    A four-week period will be given the employee in which to remedy the complaints. If sufficient improvement is not made within the four-week period of time, the employee's dismissal will be recommended to the Board of Elders. No further notice shall be given before termination of employment.

    Written documentation of interviews, reviews, and actions taken shall be maintained.

Work Practices

Employee Records

    A personnel folder containing the employment application, any payroll changes, employee evaluations, correspondence, and an attendance record is to be maintained for each employee. Any change in status is to be reported promptly to the church office, such as change in address, telephone number, withholding exemptions, or marital status.

Absence

    When possible, several days advanced notice because of an ”expected” absence is appropriate. If, for good cause, one must be absent unexpectedly, a call to the church office or pastoral staff as soon as possible is expected. Excessive absence will jeopardize an employee's position on the staff.

Tardiness

    If a situation forces one to be tardy, a call to the church office or pastoral staff is expected.

Office Hours

    Though employee hours may vary, the church office is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays (except on holidays or as otherwise specified). A one-hour lunch break is provided and two fifteen-minute breaks per day at the discretion of the employee.

Personal Grooming

    Cleanliness and good personal grooming is a must. Moderation in hair styling, makeup, and clothing (in keeping with the position held) is expected of every employee so as to be a good testimony and representative of this ministry.

Housekeeping

    Employees are encouraged to share responsibility in keeping the facilities clean and neat at all times. Please report any problems in this regard to the church office or to one of the pastoral staff.

Public Relations

    The staff represents this church to every person with whom they come in contact. Visitors and fellow employees should be treated with courtesy and kindness.

Interoffice Communication

    Support/office personnel and pastoral staff should strive to keep each other informed as to where they are and how they can be reached during office hours.

Grievances

    If an employee has a grievance, it is important that the issue be resolved as quickly as possible. Many problems can be discussed and resolved in staff meetings. Problems of a more personal nature should be discussed promptly with the immediate supervisor or one of the pastoral staff. If the problem is still unresolved, it should be taken, if necessary, to the Board of Elders.

Security

    Effective security measures are a benefit to you as an employee and to the church as a whole. Lost or stolen keys weaken security, so guard carefully all keys in your possession. If you are the last person to leave an area that is normally locked, be sure the door is closed and locked properly.

    An alarm system has been installed for the church office, work room, A/V storage room and pastoral offices. The last person to leave in the evening is responsible to set the alarm.

    Leave personal valuables in a safe place. Be alert for people who should not be in the building or on the grounds. A courteous "May I help you?" is always appropriate.

Safety/Accidents

    Each employee is to share in maintaining a safe place for everyone by always being on the alert for any unsafe or hazardous situation and taking corrective action (on the spot if possible). Problems or needs in this area should be brought up as soon as possible at staff meeting. A safety-conscious attitude and approach to all duties will minimize the likelihood of an accident. If involved in (or are witness to) an accident while on the job, it must be reported to the church office as soon as possible and a ”written” report of all the details is an absolute necessity.

Church Budget

    The church operates on a yearly budget and it is the responsibility of the staff to operate within the guidelines set forth in that budget.

    Permission for expenditures over the allotted budget must be authorized by the Board of Elders.

    Staff members will not accept designated money from the body for any purpose.

    Staff members will not solicit contributions for programs and/or other purposes without prior authorization from the Board of Elders.

    If people indicate an interest in raising money for special projects or the needs of a staff member or his program, the staff member shall ask that it not be done until there is official authorization from the Board of Elders.

    A staff member shall be careful to never solicit or encourage gifts from the congregation for personal or family needs.

Church Supplies

    A variety of supplies are required in this ministry and are to be used only in connection with church programs. Supplies are not to be taken for personal use without the knowledge and approval of the secretary/office manager, and the church shall be reimbursed for supplies used.

    The church shall be reimbursed at five (5) cents per copy for the use of the copier for personal copies. If the copier is needed for more than fifty (50) personal copies, approval is needed from the secretary/office manager.

Reimbursement Voucher Process

    Reimbursement for items such as office supplies and personal gasoline expenses incurred while conducting church business is provided when a voucher is properly completed and submitted to the office and approved by the secretary/office manager or a member of the pastoral staff. Gasoline expense is reimbursable at the rate of ____ cents per mile. (It is recognized that many times the distance traveled will be insignificant and the employee will not bother to collect.)

Staff Meetings

    Staff meetings are held regularly to review the past month, discuss problems, make plans for upcoming events and provide an opportunity for the staff to pray for the ministry and any special prayer requests from the church body.

    Regular attendance at staff meetings is required for all permanent full-time support/office staff. If a staff member is unable to attend, a brief written report on ministry activities and plans is needed.

    Minutes of the staff meetings shall be taken and distributed as soon as possible as a reminder of tasks which need to be accomplished by various personnel.

Compensation

    Every effort is made to insure that each employee is compensated at a fair rate of pay. As part of a continuing effort to be fair, and as good stewards of God's provision, a job description and salary range will be maintained for each position.

Salary and Wages

    Compensation for permanent full-time support/office staff is based on a monthly salary.

    Compensation for permanent part-time and temporary help is based on an hourly wage, unless arranged otherwise by the Board of Elders.

Pay Period

    Permanent full-time employees are paid semi-monthly on the fifteenth and the last day of the month. If a payday falls on Saturday or Sunday, checks are distributed on the preceding Friday.

    If a pay check is lost, it cannot be reissued for at least forty-eight (48) hours.

    Permanent part-time employees will be paid once each month on the last work day of the month.

    Under certain circumstances, a salary advance will be permitted. After written authorization has been obtained from the pastoral staff and the church treasurer, the employee is responsible to communicate directly with the bookkeeper.

Overtime Comensation

    The employer is not obligated to compensate for overtime unless more than forty (40) hours are worked in a one-week period. Only ”authorized” overtime will be compensated.

    Overtime (for full-time employees) will be compensated by time only, on an hour-to-hour basis.

    Though part-time permanent and temporary employees are not granted paid holidays off, they may arrange to use extra hours worked (within reason) in order to take stated holidays off.

    Compensatory time must be used within four (4) weeks of the time it is earned and must be scheduled at least two days in advance.

    If an employee chooses, he/she may perform duties on a volunteer basis in addition to his/her scheduled compensated hours.

Computation of Hourly Wages:

    An employee's hourly wage is calculated by multiplying the hourly rate times the number of hours worked during the pay period.

Payroll Deductions

    By law, the church is required to withhold Federal Income and Social Security taxes from all support/office staff salaries and wages.

    By law, the church has the obligation to deduct the appropriate ________ State Industrial Insurance fees from each employee's paycheck. The amount is based on a rate set by the ________ State Department of Labor and Industries.

    Upon the request of the employee, and the authorization of the Board of Elders, the church shall make special deductions from an employee's regular paycheck. This would include funds set aside by the pastoral staff for Professional Expense Reimbursement.

Sick Leave

    All full-time pastors and other permanent full-time employees shall accumulate one paid sick day for each full month of service up to a limit of twelve (12) days. Once twelve days have been accumulated, that potential benefit remains active until used.

    No paid time off will be granted to part-time employees if such absence is related to sickness and/or accident.

    Sick leave may be used for illness, injury, absence due to pregnancy or childbirth, and routine doctor and dental appointments.

    Sickness and accident benefits shall not be paid unless the employee's condition, resulting from a sickness or accident, reasonably precludes the employee from being at work. In questionable cases, the employee may be asked to provide a physician's statement.

    Payment for sick leave shall include salary and other existing benefits such as medical insurance, auto allowance, etc. (as applicable).

    Due to hardship or other considerations, paid sickness and accident benefits, over and above the designated twelve-day period provided for in this policy statement, shall be referred to the Board of Elders for consideration and alternative action, if any.

    Sickness and accident benefits start on the first day of absence because of sickness or accident and are based on the basic rate of pay in effect at the time the absence begins. Any pay increases scheduled to start during a sickness or accident absence period shall be deferred until the employee returns to work.

    Compensating time off shall not be granted for official holidays occurring during an absence due to sickness or accident.

    An accumulation of sick leave is valuable in case of an accident or unexpected long illness and is actually income insurance provided by the church at no cost to you. It is to your advantage to conserve this benefit carefully.

Attendance Records

    From a legal and practical standpoint, it is important that accurate records of employees' attendance be maintained. To accomplish this objective, the secretary/office manager shall keep an attendance record for all support/office personnel showing days worked, vacation days, absences (excused and unexcused), sick days, jury duty, holidays, etc. The attendance record is to be maintained separately from the payroll record.

    Excellent attendance is a presumed standard.

    Attendance records are maintained to provide a specific record for determining compensatory time, sick days, time off for jury duty, holidays, vacation time accrued, and other benefits due the employee. This provides an official record which can be used for legal purposes and is useful in the event of unemployment compensation, industrial insurance, discrimination or wage and benefit disputes.

    Attendance records which show more than five (5) incidences of absence and/or seven (7) days total absence in any one calendar year, shall be reviewed for pattern and cause of such absence.

    Where such review discloses the need for corrective action on the part of the employee, appropriate discussions shall be held with the employee regarding the corrective action needed, if any.

    The attendance records will be maintained as shown by the secretary/office manager on a calendar-ear basis. At the end of the year, the attendance records will be stored in the event they are needed at some future date.

    Item

    Posting Symbol

    Hours worked (other than pastors)

    8 (number of hours)

    Absence Due to Sickness

    S

    Holiday

    H

    Vacation

    V

    Time worked on holidays

    8W

    Compensating time off

    8C

    Scheduled day off

    O

Salary Increases

    Supervisors will review job performance periodically and pay increases will be considered, if warranted, on the basis of the established salary range.

Conferences, Seminars, Workshops

    Support/office staff will be eligible for approved conferences or seminars as determined by the pastoral staff.

    The pastoral staff is responsible for guidance and approval of conferences to be attended by support/office staff members. Care must be taken to assure that a conference has a direct contribution to be made to a staff member's work and thus is of benefit to the church.

    Careful planning in the scheduling and attending of conferences is vital so that conflict with church-related responsibilities is avoided.

Study Leave (Pastoral Staff)

    Members of the pastoral staff will be granted up to eight (8) weeks of study leave with pay, depending upon the course of study, every five (5) years for educational purposes.

    It will be clearly understood that the staff member will return for at least one (1) year of service following a study leave.

    Any study leave must have authorization from the Board of Elders.

Leave of Absence or Vacation Without Pay

    Permanent employees requesting a leave of absence, or extended vacation without pay, must do so in writing to the pastoral staff, detailing the justification. A leave of absence normally shall not be granted for a period longer than thirty (30) calendar days. Any leave of absence must have authorization from the Board of Elders.

Jury Duty

    When a permanent employee is called for jury duty, time off with regular salary will be granted for work days during which such employee continues on jury duty, not to exceed four (4) weeks. Any fees received as a juror may be retained by the employee.

Garnishments and Wage Assignments

    Occasionally an employee may fall behind in payments to creditors resulting in garnishment or assignment of wages. In such instances, the church is legally required to deduct a portion of the employee's wages and forward the required amount to the creditor(s).

Holidays and Vacations

    Holidays:

    The following days are recognized as holidays with pay for permanent full-time employees at Sample Bible Church.

    New Year's Day

    Labor Day

    Presidents' Day

    Thanksgiving Day

    Memorial Day

    Christmas Day

    Independence Day

    Employee's Day

    If an employee must work on a holiday, a compensating day off shall be granted. Scheduling and arrangement for the compensating time off shall be made with the appropriate supervisor or pastoral staff.

    If the holiday falls on a day which is the employee's scheduled day off, a compensating day off in addition to the holiday shall be granted.

    Permanent part-time and temporary employees are not granted paid holidays off, but may reschedule their work in a manner so that they may be absent from their job on the holiday. All changes in work schedule shall be arranged and approved by the appropriate supervisor or pastoral staff.

    When a holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the pastoral staff will arrange for the preceding Friday or following Monday to be observed as the holiday.

Vacations

    A "vacation year" is determined by the employee's date of hire. Vacations shall be granted to pastoral and support/office staff as follows:

    The Senior Pastor shall be granted four (4) weeks of paid vacation each vacation year.

    Associate Pastors shall be granted two (2) weeks of vacation for the first three (3) years of employment and three (3) weeks vacation thereafter for each vacation year.

    Full-time support/office staff shall be granted vacation in accordance with the following schedule:

    Years of Employment

    Weeks of Vacation

    Year one

    One week

    Years two-four

    Two weeks

    Years five and following

    Three weeks

    Permanent part-time employees shall be granted a vacation in accordance with the schedule above, however, the employee will be paid equivalent to the hours normally worked.

    Permanent part-time employees are eligible to accrue vacation time after they have worked one year.

    Temporary employees (employees who are not scheduled to work every week) are not eligible for paid vacation.

    During the first six (6) months of employment, vacation taken shall not exceed vacation accrued. Vacation benefits accruing subsequent to the first six (6) months of service, including vacation earned and not taken, may be taken anytime during the remaining part of the current vacation year.

    NOTE: Vacation time is accrued monthly and time paid will be equivalent to a regular five-day work week.

    Monthly accrual fractions:

    One week

    .417 vacation days per month

    Two weeks

    .833 vacation days per month

    Three weeks

    l.25 vacation days per month

    Four weeks

    l.67 vacation days per month

    Vacation time off shall be taken during the year in which the vacation credit accrues, and said vacation credit shall not be "carried over" or accumulated from one vacation year to another without written approval of the Board of Elders.

    Because vacations are granted for the purpose of rest and relaxation away from the job, pastors and other employees shall not be paid for days worked in lieu of vacation. Vacation not taken is a lost benefit.

    All vacations for support/office staff shall be scheduled and coordinated with the appropriate supervisor or pastoral staff member. Approval must come from the pastoral staff.

    Vacation time for the pastoral staff must be scheduled and coordinated with, and approved by, the Board of Elders.

    Employees with accrued vacation time at retirement or termination will receive vacation pay. Vacation time will be paid at the employee's base rate.

Insurance

    Medical Insurance

    Full medical insurance coverage is provided for all permanent, full-time employees, as follows:

    The pastoral staff, their spouses, and dependent children through high school age who are not covered by another medical insurance plan.

    All permanent, full-time support/office employees who are not covered by another medical insurance plan.

    The spouses of permanent, full-time support/office personnel who do not work outside the home for more than thirty (30) hours per week or have medical insurance coverage through their employment.

    The children of permanent, full-time support/office personnel up through high school age who are not covered by some other means of medical insurance.

    Employees may choose an individual health plan of their preference with the total cost not to exceed the current monthly limit established by the Board of Elders. The employer shall pay directly to the insurance company.

    Medical insurance coverage becomes effective thirty (30) days after employment begins and ends thirty (30) days after termination of employment.

Continuation of Insurance While Not Working

    Subject to the terms of the respective insurance policy, continuation of medical insurance during a leave of absence without pay, disability (whether or not job-related), or for any other reason is contingent upon the employee notifying the church and making arrangements to pay the full cost of the insurance during the period of leave, if the employee desires to keep the benefits in full force and effect. Monthly payments must be made to the church in advance. Failure to make such payments may result in cancellation of the employee's benefits.

    Dental Insurance

    An optional employee-paid dental program is available through (company). Further information may be obtained in the church office.

    Disability

    Disability insurance is available through the State of __________ and, if the employee desires, an amount can be withdrawn from his/her paycheck. Under the coverage, if you are unable to work because of illness or an accident not connected with your work, insurance benefits may be collected from the State. Additional information may be obtained in the church office.

    Short-Term Disability

    Continuation of full salary will be provided for pastoral staff and permanent full-time support/office staff for a length of time to be determined by the Board of Elders in the event of absences caused by illness and/or injury.

    Maximum amount of short-term disability compensation will be unrestricted; however, if a permanent or long-term disability becomes apparent, the Board of Elders will determine a salary continuation level, if needed.

    State Industrial Insurance

    Under the Industrial Insurance Law of the State of ________, an insurance program exists which is administered by the Department of Labor and Industries and covers job-related injuries and diseases caused by conditions at work.

    This insurance pays all medical costs resulting from job injuries and/or illness. It also pays an injured employee a partial wage while off from work because of a job-related injury or illness. Fees are state-required and are automatically deducted from each employee's salary or wages.

    Social Security Insurance

    The church participates in the Federal Social Security Plan which provides old age, disability and survivor's benefits for all full-time and part-time support/office staff. The amount deducted from your paycheck is matched by the church to provide these benefits. Pastoral staff members are considered self-employed by the Social Security Administration and are individually responsible to report and pay Social Security taxes as defined in current law.

    Retirement

    At present, no retirement pension plan is offered for pastoral staff or support/office personnel.

Related Topics: Administrative and Organization

Expenditure Authorization Schedule

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General Guidelines

    (1) All expenditures must be in accordance with the approved budget, unless approved otherwise by the Board of Elders. (Note: The budget is a guideline and not an authorization to spend.)

    (2) Expenditure authorization is to be obtained ”before” an expense is incurred. An exception is made for regular monthly expenditures (e.g. utility and telephone bills).

    (3) A voucher is required to be completed before cash disbursement. (Vouchers are available in the side room.)

    (4) All expenditures are to be supported by a receipt or appropriate documentation. Sign and date the voucher when submitting for payment approval. Be certain that the expense description is clear enough for a third party to understand (e.g. an auditor).

    (5) The appropriate authority is to approve the expenditure by signing and dating the voucher.

    (6) Persons are not to approve payments of more than $50 to themselves. Submit vouchers above this amount to an authorized person.

    (7) If in doubt about church expenditures, please ask for clarification from the church treasurer or a member of the Board of Elders.

Authorization

A. All expenditures must be in accordance with the following general authorization:

    (1) Expenditures in the amount of $100 or less may be approved by the commission chairman, Deaconate chairman, member of the pastoral staff, or member of the Board of Elders.

    (2) Expenditures in excess of $100 and up to $500 must be approved by the appropriate commission chairman or Deaconate chairman, and the elder representative. (Note: Special guidelines may be needed for pastoral staff.)

    (3) Expenditures in excess of $500 must be approved by the appropriate commission chairman, Deaconate chairman, or member of the pastoral staff, and the Board of Elders.

    (4) All expenditures from the Capital Improvement Account must be approved by the Board of Elders.

B. Special authorization is granted for the following expenditures:

    (1) Members of the pastoral staff may approve payments from the Benevolent Account in amounts up to $300.

    (2) The Deaconate chairman can also approve payments up to $300, but requires consultation with a member of the pastoral staff. Amounts exceeding $300 require the approval of the Board of Elders.

    (3) All office related expenditures up to $100 may be approved by the office manager. Expenditures in excess of $100 and up to $500 must be approved by the office manager and a member of the pastoral staff.

    (4) Expenditures up to $100 under the budget category "Staff and Leadership," other than those that are office related, may be approved by members of the pastoral staff. Amounts in excess of $100 and up to $500 must be approved by two members of the pastoral staff or by a member of the pastoral staff and the Stewardship Commission elder.

    (5) All building supplies and repairs expenditures up to $100 may be approved by the Facility Caretaker. Expenditures in excess of $100 and up to $500 must be approved by the Facility Caretaker and the Facilities Commission chairman, Facilities Commission elder, or a member of the pastoral staff.

C. The following are regular expenditures the church treasurer or elder(s) with check signing authority are authorized to approve:

    (1) Staff payroll

    (2) Payroll taxes and Workmen's Compensation,

    (3) Utility expenses

    (4) Property taxes

    (5) Regular missionary support

    (6) Designated missionary support

    (7) Petty cash reimbursements

    (8) Postage expense

D. The church treasurer or elder(s) with check signing authority are authorized to approve expenditures of special projects approved by the Board of Elders.

E. Members of the pastoral staff or members of the Board of Elders are authorized to approve payment of honorariums that are consistent with the approved Honorarium Schedule.

Approved: _____________________

Related Topics: Administrative and Organization

Facilities Commission

Related Media

(sample)

Purpose

    To oversee the maintenance and repair of the church property. The commission will perform and delegate various tasks to completion as it relates to the church facilities. Responsibilities are both individual and corporate.

Structure

    The Facilities Commission shall consist of at least five members, including a chairman appointed by the Board of Elders and an elder representative. The number of persons to serve on this commission shall be determined by the commission chairman and the elder representative.

    Assign liaison of specific delegated responsibilities to various members of the commission:

Custodial Interface
Heating and Lighting
Building Maintenance and Repair
Rental House and Missions House Oversight
Church Vehicles

Responsibilities

    General Areas

    1. The assigned elder and the commission chairman will guide the direction and spiritual quality of this commission through guidance, example and prayer.

    2. Implement, uphold and carry out the church's facilities policy. Recommend changes as deemed advised.

    Specific Areas

      Oversight of the Facilities Caretaker:

    1. Responsibilities include interviewing and recommending the hiring and/or discharging of an individual in this position. Also, responsibilities include preparing a list and schedule of duties for the caretaker. The church administrator, communicating and reporting to the Facilities Commission, will represent this commission in carrying out direct supervision in explaining and training the Caretaker as to the duties and standards expected. The church administrator will also be responsible to make frequent inspections of the church facilities to assure schedules and standards are being properly carried out. In the absence of the church administrator, an appointed member of the Facilities Commission will carry out the above responsibilities.

    2. Development of a Heating and Lighting Strategy to Conserve Energy: Establish a lighting plan and schedule for the interior and exterior lighting. Utilize the central control computer in carrying out this strategy. The church administrator, or an appointed member of the Facilities Commission in the absence of an administrator, will directly oversee the proper carrying out of this energy conservation strategy.

    3. Building and Equipment Maintenance and Repair: Set up schedules for the proper maintenance of church equipment. Coordinate the repair of equipment as required. Inspect all of the church facilities on a regular basis in order to record condition of property. Schedule regular work parties when deemed necessary. All of these responsibilities will be coordinated with the church administrator, if there is one present.

    4. Representative to Tenants in Church-Owned Property: Appoint a commission member to be the liaison between the church and the tenant for matters pertaining to agreement of rent, collection of rent, repairs, and painting of the property. Coordinate with the Missions Commission to schedule missionary tenants in the missionary house.

    5. Supervision of Church Vehicles: Arrange to test and provide a list of qualified drivers to the insurance company. Inspect and test vehicles for needed repairs. Schedule all required maintenance procedures on a regular basis. Review insurance coverage on an annual basis. Set up rules for the use of the vehicle for those authorized to drive.

    6. Building and Liability Insurance: Assure adequate coverage to cover any recently purchased equipment, building additions, vehicles, or other special insurance coverage.

    7. Biannual Inventory of all Church Personal Property.

    8. Coordination of the Purchase and Installation of New or Replacement Equipment: Responsibilities include the recommendation, coordination and supervision of any remodeling or improvement projects on any of the church facilities.

    9. Fire Safety Inspections: Appoint a member of the Facilities Commission or the church administrator to test fire alarm system on the approved schedule plan. Assure that all fire preventative measures are properly and adequately in place at all times. Periodic inspections of the church facilities for fire hazards will also be carried out.

    10. Maintenance of Adequate Security Protection.

    11. Preparation of an Annual Activities Report: This will be incorporated as part of the Board of Elders' Annual Report to the congregation.

    12. Publicity of Activities and Planned Events.

      Areas Needing Approval of Elder Council

    1. Budget Expenditures Outside of Approved Budget: Also includes any expenditures over the established guidelines.

    2. Actions that will Affect the Congregation-at-Large.

    3. Items Other Than Routine Maintenance and Upgrading of Real and Personal Church Property.

Relationship with Other Ministries

    Within the Church

    1. Pastor of Administration

    2. Church Members

    3. The Facilities Commission shall make an effort to conform to the guidelines set down in Col. 3:12-14, 17 in its relationship with members of the body.

    The Facilities Commission shall function with the attitude that its members are overseers/servants caring for the assets of the Lord that have been loaned to SBC for ministry.

    Outside Organizations

    1. The Facilities Commission shall conduct itself business in such a manner as to not bring reproach on the name of Jesus Christ. Business should be done in such a manner as to bring positive unsolicited recommendations from one business to another in dealing with SBC.

    2. Local Government Representatives: The Facilities Commission will be expected to interface with representatives as may be required from time to time (i.e., the Fire Department, the Building Department, etc.)

Related Topics: Administrative and Organization

Sample Request for Building Use

Related Media

(Complete and return to church office five working days before date of use.)

Personal Information:

Today’s Date: ___________________ Date(s) Needed: ______________________________

Function: _______________________ Bldg. Open from: _____________ to ____________

Person in Charge: ___________________ Meeting from: ____________ to ____________

Group/Person Requesting Use: ___________________________________________________

Home Phone ____________________ Work Phone ____________________

Person making request is responsible for cleanup; if different, please list person’s name on next line:

Person responsible for cleanup: ________________________________________________

Home Phone ____________________ Work Phone ____________________

Areas Needed: (Circle area(s) needed)

Auditorium

Library

Sound Room

Fellowship Room

Nurseries

Youth Building

Grandma's Attic/Bride's Room

Room 103 (Basement)

Other

Kitchen

Room 200 (Upstairs)

Supplies or Equipment Needed: (e.g. markers)

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

Audio/Visual Equipment Needed: (Overhead, projector, podium)

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________

Will you need sound system? Yes _________ No ________ (Operated by person in charge of this area.)

Facilities Policies & Guidelines
and
Building Clean-Up and Set-Up Guidelines are attached.

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND COMPLY WITH ALL GUIDELINES.

For Office Use

Highlight areas of use on Policies and Guidelines, and attach this sheet to front of user's copy.

Non-Member Use:

Deposit Paid ____________ Total Fees ____________ Balance Due __________

Request Form, Policies & Guidelines given to:

Handed to: ______________________________________________________________________

Mailed to: ______________________________________________________________________

Faxed to: ______________________________________________________________________

Comments: _______________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

Date entered on Master Calendar? _______________________________________________

A/V Personnel Contacted: _____________________________________________________

If Wedding, Clothes Closet Personnel notified of date: Yes _______ No ______

Keys

Key(s) issued? ___________ To: ________________________________________________

Date Key(s) Returned _________________________________________________________

Office Personnel ______________________________________________________________

Original given to Building Superintendent? ____________________________________

Related Topics: Administrative and Organization

Sample Facilities Policies & Guidelines

Related Media

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND COMPLY WITH ALL POLICIES AND GUIDELINES.

Adult (18 years or older and out of High School) supervision is required to use the Youth or main facilities.

Facilities Policies

APPROVED BUILDING USE: __________ facilities are to be used for _________-approved purposes only.

SECURITY: Our facilities are protected by an alarm system which is monitored by the provider of the system. ALARMS ARE OFF BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 8 A.M. AND 8 P.M. UNLESS BUILDING IS IN USE.

BUILDING ACCESS - The building is accessible through the Church Office between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday except holidays. If access is required at other times, arrangements should be made through the Church Office during normal business hours (231-9342).

    For Building Use, You May Need the Following:

    1. Door code to the East end of the old Sunday School wing. All access to the building other than normal business hours will be made through this door. DO NOT GIVE THIS CODE TO CHILDREN!

    2. Sign out a key to the requested room(s). RETURN KEY TO CHURCH OFFICE WHEN THROUGH!

    3. Before leaving, MAKE SURE ALL DOORS ARE CLOSED AND LOCKED (INCLUDING FRONT AND SIDE DOORS TO AUDITORIUM).

    Use of Building: (ALL meetings: leadership, music, rehearsals, use of tape room, Jr./Sr. High, etc.)

    1. PERMISSION: NO USE OF THE BUILDING IS PERMITTED WITHOUT ADULT SUPERVISION (18 YEARS OR OLDER AND OUT OF HIGH SCHOOL) IN THE YOUTH OR MAIN FACILITIES.

    2. SCHEDULING: Use of the building must be scheduled FIVE WORKING DAYS IN ADVANCE ON THE MASTER CALENDAR THROUGH THE CHURCH OFFICE (231-9342 - 8:30 A.M. - 3:00 P.M. WEEKDAYS).

    3. SET-UP AND CLEAN-UP: PERSON IN CHARGE OF MEETING IS RESPONSIBLE FOR FOLLOWING FACILITIES POLICIES AS WELL AS SET-UP AND CLEAN-UP GUIDELINES.

    4. COFFEE AND REFRESHMENTS: ENTIRELY THE RESPONSIBILITY OF PERSON IN CHARGE of scheduled meeting. Coffee and refreshments are presently NOT INCLUDED in the budget; therefore, we request that you PROVIDE YOUR OWN.

    5. CANCELLATIONS: In the event of cancellation, it is important to CONTACT THE CHURCH OFFICE as soon as possible (phone from 8:30 to 3:00 p.m. weekdays; recorder after hours.)

Related Topics: Administrative and Organization

Sample Set-Up & Clean-Up Guidelines

Related Media

Sample Set-Up & Clean-Up Guidelines

Our goal is to present a clean and orderly appearance of __________________________to the glory of God. These guidelines are given for a consistent maintaining of the building. We greatly appreciate your help in working toward this goal.

REMEMBER

  • Other people or groups also use these facilities.
  • Food left out, not cleaned up or taken to dumpster DRAWS BUGS!

Set-Up Guidelines

    1. PERSON OR GROUP IN CHARGE of the meeting is COMPLETELY RESPONSIBLE FOR THE SET UP of the meeting room(s).

    2. COFFEE AND OTHER REFRESHMENTS are presently NOT INCLUDED in the budget; therefore, we request that you PROVIDE YOUR OWN.

Clean-Up Guidelines

    1. SUNDAY SCHOOL ROOMS: Please leave chairs folded and against wall. In rooms with small chairs, either stack on tables or line against wall. Pick up trash, clean up spills from drinks or food. Take trash out to the dumpster in back parking lot on day used.

    2. ALL OTHER ROOMS: Pick up trash, clean up spills from drinks or food. Straighten chairs and tables. Take trash to dumpster in back parking lot on day used. LEAVE ROOM AS YOU FOUND IT!

    3. NURSERIES: On day used, empty diaper pails and take to dumpster. Spray diaper pails with disinfectant and replace liner (located in cabinets). Clean up spills from drinks or food. Laundry guidelines are posted in each nursery.

    4. KITCHEN: Clean up all spills of drinks or foods. Any dishes used should be washed and put up on the day used. Take trash out to dumpster in back parking lot on day of use.

    5. AUDITORIUM: Pick up all trash and clean up all spills of drink or food (from under chairs, tables, etc.). Take trash out to dumpster in back parking lot on day of use. Replace hymnals under chair racks.

    6. GRANDMA'S ATTIC/BRIDE'S ROOM: Left as found.

    7. FELLOWSHIP ROOM: Left as found.

    8. ANYTHING OUT OF ORDER: If anything is found not in working order, and you cannot fix it, notify the Church Office immediately after your meeting.

Related Topics: Administrative and Organization

Sample Building Use Form

Related Media

Sample Building Use Form

For Non-_________________Use

Name: ____________________________ Phone: (H) _______________(W) _______________

Address: _______________________________________________________________________

Date Needed: __________________ Time: From _________________ to ________________

Reason for Building Use: _______________________________________________________

Number of People Expected: ____________________________________________________

Information below will be determined by the Building Superintendent who will contact inquirer.

Previously established Non-________ Wedding Fees are shown on the _________ Wedding Policies.

Mandatory Fees:

Deposit/Application Fee:

$50.00**

Janitorial Fee ($17/hour)

_______

_____________ Representative ($17/hour)

_______

Utility Fee ($6/hour)

_______

Sub-Total:

_______

Optional Fees:

Audio/Visual Assistant ($17/hour) (Auditorium Only)

 

Sub-Total

_______

Mandatory Fees

_______

Optional Fees

_______

TOTAL FEES

_______

**Due after approval and prior to use; balance due within five working days of date building used. Fees will be adjusted according to actual fees and times. Deposit refundable if no damage occurs.

Fees for Non-__________ May be Waived for the Following Reasons:

    1. By Elder approval

    2. If the activity meets approved ____________ usage guidelines and can be scheduled during times of normal ___________building use when space is available.

Applicant's Signature: ________________________________________ Date: ___________

Elder Approval/Disapproval: ___________________________________ Date: ___________

Related Topics: Administrative and Organization

Job Description: Secretary/Office Manager

Related Media

(sample 1)

Job Responsibilities:

    1. CORRESPONDENCE: Respond to individuals needing written communication. Compose letters when requested by the pastoral staff. Send letters to all first-time visitors to the church. Be sure all correspondence is mailed in a timely manner.

    2. MAINTENANCE OF OFFICE EQUIPMENT: Operate, clean regularly, and recommend to the supervisor maintenance needs for all office equipment (i.e., copier, folding machine, typewriters, computer, etc.).

    3. PREPARATION OF BULLETIN: Keep an up-to-date calendar of events, gather information, type bulletin information in designated format, spell-check, proofread, get pastoral approval, copy and fold weekly bulletins.

    4. ADMINISTRATION OF COMPUTER OPERATIONS: Do everything possible to become a proficient computer operator. Supervise all computer-related procedures. Plan overall utilization of computer capabilities. Responsible to see that all changes are kept up-to-date. Generate reports when required by pastoral staff or other members of the church.

    5. SECRETARIAL SUPPORT TO PASTORAL STAFF: Help with correspondence, telephoning, and any other tasks that might be done to free them as much as possible to do more important duties.

    6. MAINTENANCE OF OFFICE FILES: Keep all files in an orderly manner and prepare filing system directions for other users. Maintain records of baptisms, dedications, weddings, membership and visitor attendance.

    7. ADMINISTRATION OF A LOST AND FOUND CENTER.

    8. KEYS: Maintain a current list of key holders and provide keys to personnel as needed. Collect keys when people leave.

    9. MAINTAIN PETTY CASH.

    10. MAINTAIN MASTER CALENDAR.

    11. OPEN, DATE, AND SORT INCOMING MAIL.

    12. MAINTENANCE OF HOSPITALIZED BOARD.

    13. RECEIVES VISITORS TO OFFICE AND RESPONDS TO NEEDS.

    14. HANDLES THE TELEPHONE AND ANSWERING MACHINE.

    15. INVENTORY CONTROL FOR OFFICE SUPPLIES. Provides an uninterrupted support of total church office operations. Orders supplies as needed.

    16. SUPERVISION OF VOLUNTEER OFFICE HELP. Includes recruiting, scheduling, training, and work review.

    17. PREPARATION OF THE ANNUAL REPORT. Responsible for setting reasonable deadlines for acquiring

    18. reports from the commissions, typing the information received, editing, formatting, proofreading, copying and assembly of reports.

    19. BOOKKEEPING. Maintains a complete and systematic set of records of business transactions. Balances books and prepares reports to show receipts, expenditures, accounts payable, and various other items

    20. pertinent to the operation of the church.

    21. MAINTAIN PERSONNEL RECORDS. To maintain personnel files on all personnel, pastoral and

    22. support/office staff, as outlined in Employee Policy.

    23. OTHER RECORDS: To maintain records and follow-up on items borrowed from the church, and the collection of money owed to the church (i.e., personal long distance calls, wholesale purchasing cards, etc.).

    24. MAINTENANCE OF BULLETIN BOARDS. To maintain orderly bulletin boards with current information.

    25. OFFICE PROCEDURE MANUAL. Maintain an Office Procedure Manual so that information as to the

    26. function of the church office is kept up-to-date and is easily accessible to others should it be needed.

    27. PRINTED MATERIALS: As necessary, update any printed materials so that information is accurate and current (i.e., Application for Assistance, Facility Use Forms, etc.).

Job Requirements and Guidelines

    1. Protect the reputation and integrity of others through strict confidentiality.

    2. Develop an attitude toward role as a minister of church, not merely office help.

    3. Demonstrate a high level of trust. (A violation of trust will result in immediate dismissal.).

    4. Display the ability to communicate well, both verbally and written.

    5. Create an environment that is inviting to people passing through on a daily basis.

    6. When urgent situations arise, your first priority is to the person involved. Identify the need and its degree of urgency. Then refer, counsel, or take a message for one of the pastoral staff members.

    7. Develop procedure for handling complaints and problems.

    8. Develop procedure for handling visitors during office hours.

    9. Cooperation in scheduling and planning to see that the goals and objectives of the church are being realized is necessary. This assumes a firsthand knowledge of current policies, procedures and programs at the church.

    10. Keep abreast of church protocol by keeping policies current and drafting needed policies for the pastoral staff to channel to the proper commissions.

Related Topics: Administrative and Organization

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